Severe Ganga erosion has devastated Raghopur in Bhagalpur, swallowing large stretches of land and damaging several local structures. The powerful river currents also swept away the nearly century-old Chaiti Durga Temple, a respected religious landmark.
The incident occurred Tuesday as rising water levels and changing river flows intensified erosion across vulnerable areas. Local residents watched helplessly as the river gradually weakened the temple’s foundation and carried away its structure. Officials described the situation as challenging and difficult because the Ganga continued changing its course unexpectedly. Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Choudhary said the changing river flow had created serious pressure points. Choudhary, who also handles the Water Resources Department, returned to Patna after cutting short his Delhi meeting. He said senior officials and engineers had reached the affected areas to monitor erosion and strengthen protection measures.
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Authorities Intensify Anti-Erosion Measures and Prepare for Evacuations
Authorities had previously conducted anti-erosion work after identifying pressure points during earlier flooding near Raghopur. However, strong currents and continuing riverbank erosion have again created serious challenges for officials and residents. Water Resources Department Secretary Chandrashekhar Singh said rising water levels and heavy silt deposition intensified erosion across several locations. He explained that strong currents and changing flows continued damaging vulnerable stretches along the riverbank. Officials also reported difficult conditions near the Mahadevpur embankment because erosion and scouring continued despite protective measures. Authorities have secured large sections of the embankment, but continuing erosion remains a major concern there. Officials have placed residents in vulnerable locations on alert and prepared evacuation plans for emergencies.
The district administration has also arranged relief camps, community kitchens, drinking water and healthcare facilities nearby. Officials are advising residents to move essential belongings, livestock and families toward safer locations immediately. Authorities continue monitoring the situation closely while engineers work to control further erosion along vulnerable riverbank sections. The administration has urged residents to follow official instructions and avoid spreading unverified information during emergencies. The continuing erosion has increased concerns about homes, infrastructure, embankments and other important structures across Raghopur. The loss of the historic temple has also caused significant emotional distress among local residents. Officials continue strengthening vulnerable areas while preparing relief and evacuation measures as the Ganga remains highly active. The administration now faces the difficult task of protecting residents while controlling further damage from erosion.